Ortega Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ortega, a Federal water supply facility located in Santa Barbara, California, plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.


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Summary

Constructed in 1956 by the Bureau of Reclamation, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 131 feet and has a storage capacity of 59 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Ortega is to provide water supply for the surrounding area, drawing from the Santa Ynez River and Picay Creek.

With a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, Ortega is a key infrastructure for water management in the region. Despite its age, the dam is well-maintained by the Bureau of Reclamation, which oversees its operations, inspections, and regulatory functions. While the dam has a controlled spillway and emergency action plan in place, its condition assessment is currently not available, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures.

Ortega's strategic location and design make it a vital asset for water resource management in Santa Barbara County. As climate change presents new challenges to water availability and security, facilities like Ortega will continue to play a crucial role in ensuring the sustainable use of water resources for the community. The dedication of the Bureau of Reclamation to the upkeep and safety of Ortega underscores the importance of this infrastructure in the context of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

430

Dam Height

119

River Or Stream

SANTA YNEZ RIVER OS, PICAY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

21

Nid Storage

59

Structural Height

131

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

131
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.